Visible Indicators of Less Visible Property Damage

When you’re a homeowner, you know that necessary home repairs often show up at the most inconvenient times. However, less visible property damage is a threat that can sneak up on you. Often, insidious forms of home damage don’t become obvious until a significant amount of damage has been done. Here’s how to spot it early-on.

Animals on the Roof

We’ve all seen a squirrel on the roof from time to time. But if you’re consistently seeing animals on your home’s roof, it could be a sign of more damage. For instance, you may see birds nesting in a clogged gutter. While a clogged gutter may not mean major damage, animals on the roof may signal a more dangerous problem. In some cases, a steady presence of animals on the roof means they’re nesting in the attic. Nesting animals can cause health issues, especially as the nest grows.

Window Frame Gaps

You might initially write off gaps in window frames as just minor damage. But while many people proceed by sealing the gap and moving on with their lives, window frame gaps are an indicator of a more serious issue. Gaps in window frames are one of many indicators of foundation damage. If you notice gaps, and especially if the gaps are increasing in size, be sure to contact a qualified contractor sooner rather than later. With something as serious as an issue with your foundation, you’ll want to address it as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

Ceiling Stains

Especially in older homes, you might think a ceiling stain is a sign of age. However, a ceiling stain is rarely just an ugly addition to your home. These stains usually mean you have an issue with water leaking onto your ceiling tiles, which produces black mold. Black mold can cause severe and even life-threatening respiratory issues, especially if anyone in your family has asthma or allergies. While a roof leak is often responsible, you’ll need to do more than just seal it. Once black mold has entered your home, it can spread along the ceiling and even into walls. While it’s possible to remove mold at this point, it’s significantly more expensive.

Being vigilant when it comes to insidious property damage is essential. It’s important to investigate even the smallest disturbances in your home. By regularly monitoring for smaller signs, you’ll be well-equipped to start fixing problems before they become out of hand.